Listen to the playlist on Spotify here!

The Christmas spruce is twinkling, the lords are a-leaping and the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon has penetrated your nostrils with more gusto than a lateral flow. Here. For. It. There’s only one left thing to do: hit play on these catchy Crimbo earworms and be grateful your Spotify Wrapped has been and gone.

From the dulcet tones of Frank Sinatra to the modern Christmas hits from Ariana Grande and songs from the movies, here’s 100 Christmas jingles to fill your heart and your eardrums with festive spirit. Unless you work in retail of course, in which case you’d probably rather chew barbed wire than sit through another one of Mariah Carey whistle notes.

PS out of respect to Emma Thompson, this playlist contains no Joni Mitchell.

Songs from the Movies:

1 Christmas Is All Around – Billy Mack (Love Actually)

2 Walking In The Air – Aled Jones (The Snowman)

3 Where Are You Christmas – Faith Hill (The Grinch)

4 Carol of The Bells – Mykola Dmytrovych Leontovych, John Williams (Home Alone)

5 Believe – Josh Groban (The Polar Express)

6 Somewhere in My Memory – John Williams (Home Alone)

7 One More Sleep ‘til Christmas – Steve Whitmire, Kermit (The Muppet’s Christmas Carol)

8 Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas – Judy Garland (Meet Me In St Louis)

9 Maestro – Hans Zimmer (The Holiday)

10 Joy to The World – Aretha Franklin (Miracle on 34th Street)

11 Auld Lang Syne – Mairi Campbell and Dave Francis (Sex and The City)

12 Let It Go – Idina Menzel (Frozen)

13 What’s This – Danny Elfman (The Nightmare Before Christmas)

14 Baby, It’s Cold Outside (Zooey Deschanel, Leon Redbone)

15 Sparkle & Shine – Nativity, The Cast

Song from the Christmas Ads:

16 Somewhere Only We Know – Lily Allen

17 Can’t Fight This Feeling Anymore – Bastille

18 Half the World Away – Aurora

19 A Little Love – Celeste

20 Adele – Hold On

21 Real Love – Tom Odell

22 Power of Love – Gabrielle Aplin

23 Together In Electric Dreams – Lola Young

24 Sweet Child O’Mine – Take by Trees

25 Your Song – Elle Goulding

26 All You Need Is Love – Katy Perry

27 Forever Young – Becky Hill

28 Love Is A Compass – Griff

The Party Bops:

29 All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey

30 Christmas Tree Farm – Taylor Swift

31 Merry Christmas – Elton John & Ed Sheeran

32 Last Christmas – Wham

33 Fairytale of New York – The Pogues

34 Christmas Wrapping – The Waitresses

35 Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee

36 Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin’ Stevens

37 I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day – Wizzard

38 Merry Xmas Everybody – Slade

39 Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms

40 What Christmas Means To Me – Stevie Wonder

The Easy Listening Classics:

41 It’s The Most Wonderful Time of The Year – Andy Williams

42 White Christmas – Frank Sinatra

43 It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas – Michael Buble

44 Do They Know It’s Christmas – Band Aid

45 Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rae

46 Silver Bells – Dean Martin

47 Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney

48 Little Saint Nick – The Beach Boys

49 Mistletoe and Wine – Cliff Richard

50 The Christmas Song – Nat King Cole

51 Sleigh Ride – The Ronettes

52 Step into Christmas – Elton John

53 Baby It’s Cold Outside – Tom Jones & Cerys Matthews

54 Silent Night – Bing Crosby

55 Frosty the Snowman – The Ronettes

56 Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John Lennon

57 I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus – The Jackson 5

58 Feliz Navidad – Jose Feliciano

59 Blue Christmas – Elvis Presley

60 Mary’s Boy Child – Boney M

61 Thank God It’s Christmas – Queen

62 Cool Yule – Louis Armstrong

63 Winter Wonderland – Darlene Love

64 Rudolf The Red Nose Reindeer – Gene Autry

65 Little Drummer Boy – Bing Crosby

66 Santa Claus Is Coming To Town – The Jackson 5

67 Run Rudolph Run – Chuck Berry

68 2000 Miles – Pretenders

The Modern Ditties:

70 Christmas Lights – Coldplay

71 Snowman – Sia

72 Santa Tell Me – Ariana Grande

73 Underneath the Tree – Kelly Clarkson

74 Santa, Can’t You Hear Me – Kelly Clarkson, Ariana Grande

75 Christmas Calling – Norah Jones

76 Oh Santa! – Ariana Grande & Jennifer Hudson

77 8 Days of Christmas – Destiny’s Child

78 Mistletoe – Justin Bieber

79 Christmas Time (Don’t Let The Bells) – The Darkness

80 Abba – Little Things

81 Leona Lewis – One More Sleep

82 Kiss Me It’s Christmas – Leona Lewis, Neyo

83 Holly Jolly Christmas – Michael Buble

84 Like It’s Christmas – Jonas Brothers

85 Merry Christmas Darling – Christina Perri

86 Is This Christmas – The Wombats

87 Naughty List – Liam Payne, Dixie

88 It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries – Carly Rae Jepsen

89 Somethin’ Stupid – Robbie Williams, Nicole Kidman

90 Stay Another Day – East 17

91 Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas – Sam Smith

92 Christmas Is – Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus

93 My Only Wish This Year – Britney Spears

94 Cosy Little Christmas – Katy Perry

95 You Deserve It All – John Legend

96 Man With The Bag – Jessie J

97 Santa’s Coming For Us – Sia

98 The Christmas Song – Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello

99 The First Noel – Whitney Houston

100 Holidays – Megan Trainor

Listen to the playlist on Spotify here!

Ever wish you could up sticks, move to France and find a residence in a fairytale castle with 12 acres, a walled garden, an orangery and a moat? Same hun.

That’s exactly what engineer Dick Strawbridge and his wife Angel Adoree did on their Channel 4 hit series Escape to the Chateau.

“In the heart of the French countryside, a magnificent chateau sat uncared for and abandoned, until this intrepid British couple unlocked its front door, fell in love with its grandeur and embarked on an adventure to restore its former magic, uncovering its hidden history along the way.” It’s truly renovation tv gold.

From tearing down walls to designing their own heating system, Dick and Angel have transformed all 45 rooms since the start of the show in 2016. Now in its eighth series, the couple is currently building an iconic drinking den-meets-observatory in the attic with views of the sky and the stars. How’s that for a room with a view!

Christmas at the Strawbridges’ gaff is surely as festive as it gets so, before they hit the road for their UK-wide Dare to Do It tour, we caught up with the iconic duo to see how they deck the halls of their famous 19th-century chateau for the festive period.

Favourite Family Tradition…

Putting the Christmas tree up as a family with Christmas songs, mince pies and Port for the grown-ups! 

The most delicious thing to cook…

Mince pies is a family fave and tradition…but we also love a cooked ham over Christmas, and on Christmas morning, we love it on buttery toast with English mustard!

Christmas tipple of choice…

Eggnog!  But we do love a ‘vin chaud’. The kids enjoy a warm grenadine…which is like a hot Ribena!

Something you’re hoping to receive…

Hard one. We don’t wish for anything tangible. Having family time to just be together over the festive period is all we ever want…Arthur & Dorothy are different of course and they have just written their list to Père Noël!

Decoration you’ve had the longest…

Our oldest decoration is 10 years old from when Dick & I got together and came to France for our first real holiday. It was the moment we fell in love with France and decided to change our path together! We bought this decoration as a memory…and we cannot believe the journey it’s been on! Our tree is full of memories…we keep every decoration the kids make and it’s a delight putting it up!

Where you’ll be spending Christmas this year…

At the Chateau!

Favourite part of Christmas…

Stopping and seeing the children’s faces when they see Father Christmas has been!

The time you eat your Christmas Lunch…

Late afternoon, when it’s ready.

Christmas Eve plans…

It will just be the four of us, getting ready for Père Noël to come and snuggling in front of the fire with a movie!

Christmas day attire…

Christmas jumpers and a little sparkle.

Christmas TV special you’re most excited about…

We don’t get to stop and watch TV until the week before Xmas so no idea yet, but we do love to watch anything that has the kids in fits of laughter.

Favourite Christmas Song…

Bing Crosby – White Christmas 

“I will not be judged by you or society. I will wear whatever I want and blow whomever I want as long as I can breathe and kneel.” – Samantha Jones 

The words of an icon if we ever did see one, Sex and the City’s Samantha Jones is the definition of living her best life and we’re so here for it. If you know that sexy, sushi scene is the stuff your bestie, sister or partner’s, wildest dreams are made of, look no further for the perfect gift selection for the hot and horny people in your life. Is there anything more joyous to find under the Christmas tree than a vibrating box of pleasure? We think not …

Featuring Team Zoella favourites from Smile Makers, Love Honey, Knude Society and Womanizer, this edit of fun, fun, fun is one that can please a pal or serve both you and a lover, making it the perfect treat you can both make the most of. After all, there’s a long, hard, winter ahead. Do with that what you will.

*This post contains ad-affiliate links 

Prepare to disappear down a rabbit hole of dreamlike realms, sublime storytelling and beautifully-spun narratives, perfect for distracting you from those cold winter nights.

From fiercely feminist debuts inspired by The Nutcracker to talking cats and Hocus Pocus horn, here’s a buffet of books that’ll help you feel like you’re anywhere but stuck in your living room, surrounded by clothes that never seem to dry and the faint aroma of last night’s Deliveroo.

1. Night Circus – Erin Morgenstern

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

You can always rely on magic to drag you away from the real world and Erin Morgenstern’s Night Circus is no exception. Two star-crossed magicians set their best pupils against one another in a contest but unbeknownst to them, there is a price to pay for their magic. A feat of the imagination, truly one of the best reading experiences you’ll ever have.

Read this one if: you want to fill the Potterverse void

2. Stay Another Day – Juno Dawson

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

TW: Eating disorders, self-harm, mental health.
Four sleeps till Christmas, three siblings, one juicy secret – if you read one book this season, make it this one. Cosy and festive but with Dawson’s trademark grit and quick-witted social commentary, get you a Christmas book that does both. Probably the wildest Christmas book you’ll ever read.

Read this one if: you’re here for the drama over the décor

3. Gifts – Laura Barnett

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

They say don’t judge a book by its cover but in this case, go right ahead. Like chocolate for the eyes, Gifts tells the bittersweet story of 12 interconnected characters on the hunt for the perfect gift for the people who matter most to them. An immensely readable book made for a cosy day at home, preferably with a snoozing dog on your lap.

Read this one if: you want a quintessential feel-good festive read

4. The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr – Frances Maynard

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

Fans of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine will love this coming-of-age story about a 27-year-old neuro-atypical girl, living with her overbearing mother. When her mother is taken ill with a stroke and moves to a nursing home, Elvira comes up with several rules to help her make sense of the world around her.

Read this one if: you’re a simp for a heart-warming tale

5. The Flip Side – James Bailey

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

The book equivalent of a Richard Curtis film – James Bailey’s debut novel is a rom-com gem, destined to get you through cuffing season. When Josh’s proposal to his long-term girlfriend goes disastrously wrong, he decides all future decisions about his love life shall be left up to a fifty pence piece. As in a coin toss. Bold move, Josh. Bold move. Cue the road trip with Jesus, pigeons and a plethora of heart-warming scenes.

Read this one if: you want a laugh a minute and a romp across Europe

6. The Cat Who Saved Books – Sosuke Natsukawa (author) Louise Heal Kawai (translator)

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

Immerse yourself in this heart-warming Japanese tale of a sassy talking tabby cat named Tiger on a mission to rescue imprisoned and unloved books from a series of labyrinths. Grief-stricken high school student Rintaro Natsuki is about to close the secondhand bookshop he inherited from his late grandfather when Tiger saunters into the store and asks to help him on his bookish quesst…

Read this one if: books / cats are your love language

7. Midnight in Everwood – M.A. Kuzniar

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

This dark and sumptuous adult retelling of The Nutcracker is a feast for the imagination. It tells the story of Marietta Stelle, a young woman with big dreams of being a ballerina. Alas, her high society family wants her to settle down and find a husband. When the creepy toymaker Dr Drosselmeier moves into a neighbouring townhouse, he constructs an elaborate theatrical set for her final ballet performance. As the clock strikes midnight, Marietta finds herself transported from the ballroom to a frozen sugar palace where she must learn to fight for her freedom.

Read this one if: you have a mountain of confectionery within arm’s reach

8. The Bookshop on The Corner – Jenny Colgan

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

When 29-year-old Nina is laid off from her job at the library, she starts her life over, buying a camper van and transforming it into a bookshop on wheels. She moves to a sleepy village in the Scottish Highlands, driving from neighbourhood to neighbourhood bringing people together through the power of storytelling. From helping her grumpy landlord deliver a lamb, to sharing picnics with a charming train conductor who serenades her with poetry, Nina discovers there’s plenty of adventure, magic, and soul in a place that’s beginning to feel like home… a place where she just might be able to write her own happy ending.

Light-hearted and witty, it’s the perfect companion for those quietly brilliant pj-clad weekends with a packet of Viennese biscuits for a pillow.

Read this one if: you’re hard manifesting moving to Scotland and living on a farm

9. The Candlelit Menagerie – Caraline Brown

Purchase this title from Bookshop.org here.

Serving Greatest Showman energy, The Candlelit Menagerie will transport you to the dim halls of the exotic animal world of London, three hundred years ago. Lillian, the main character, is a freakishly tall woman with closely shorn hair who struggles to fit into society due to her size. She finds solace in Grady’s Menagerie where she befriends the wild animals and discovers what it means to belong.

A sensory exploration of old London and the impacts of colonialism on the British Empire. A unique story that will no doubt find its way to the big screen, if there’s any justice in the world.

Read this one if: you love complex literary heroines and historical fiction

10. The Ex Hex – Erin Sterling

Purchase this title from here.

Wait, you expect us to buy into another booktok romance… with witchy horn? You son of a bitch, we’re in.
Vivienne Jones handles heartbreak just the way any self-respecting girl would – with baths, vodka and revenge, or in this case a curse. Nine years later when the irritatingly gorgeous Rhys Penhallow (the ex with the hex) is back in Graves Glen, Vivienne realises the curse has worked and she must face the consequences of her drunken antics in order to save the town and her ex.

It gets hot real fast. Case in point: “Vivienne if you’ll allow me to make you come tonight, I’d consider myself the most fortunate of men”. Sorry, I can’t make it. I’m doing hot witch shit.

Read this one if: you’re a Hocus Pocus stan

This article contains ad-affiliate links.

Whether you’re well versed in the world of grazing boards or want to create your own for the first time this Christmas, keep reading for our top tips and tricks to create the perfect board that offers something delicious for everyone. The New York Times named grazing boards “2021’s most gorgeous food trend”, and after feasting on this one ourselves, we can’t help but be inclined to agree…

To graze or not to graze: deciding which items make the cut!

In our extensive experience of (devouring) grazing boards, having a broad selection of snacking items that offer the perfect balance of savoury, sweet, tangy and fresh is the key to a board that satisfies everyone, and is guaranteed to be polished off before you can say “anyone for more homemade baba ganoush?”. A specific cuisine is optional when it comes to deciding on the contents of your board as oftentimes general mezze style snacking is the goal, but if you fancy matching your board to your wines or general feel of the night, consider Italian (vegan arancini), Moroccan (falafels galore), Greek (flatbread x10) or French (who doesn’t love a mini quiche) to put a different spin on the classic grazing board format.

Selecting items that can be easily picked up and munched on by guests rocking around the Christmas tree is also preferable, as with this type of serving option your nearest and dearest will likely be chatting, drinking and bopping into the night without sitting down for a formal meal or using cutlery at all. Think finger food, but make it boujie! 

Ready, set, prep

The menu is decided, the Ocado order has been completed, and now it’s time to get prepped! Depending on the size of your soiree, you can use a large wooden chopping board to complete your grazing extravaganza, or head to destinations such as Etsy, Dunelm, M&S, Anthropologie, H&M Home or Lakeland for wooden, marble or slate effect platters that create the perfect base for a delicious spread. If you’re looking to create a serving sensation on a budget, simply roll out some brown parchment paper and assemble your foodie selection this way.

For the most impressive looking board, adding height, dimension and texture is a must for a platter guests can’t help but dive into, meaning pretty glassware for breadsticks, and pinch bowls and dishes for dips and olives are a must.

One of the beauties of a grazing board is how low maintenance it can be once prepared, giving you all the more time to catch up with family and friends without needing to be tied to the hob or constantly checking the oven – perfect for hosts who plan to be right in the middle of the Dirty Santa action. Make a foolproof timeline in advance of the items that need to be pre-cooked or prepared in advance, allowing ample time to arrange your board, as although the abundance of options can make this style of serving look effortless, behind every grazing board is a considerable amount of faffing and fixating over ya carrot baton placement. 

Pro tip! Odd numbers often work best for the most striking finish, helping to create a more organic and less perfect effect to your grazing goodness. Start with your pinch bowls and mini dishes and arrange sporadically across your platter, and then begin adding your chosen foods!

The shopping list of dreams

The exact contents of your grazing board is totally up to you and the preferences of your guests, but here are some ideas that Team Zoella enjoyed on theirs which may help you feel inspired…

Fresh fruit and veg: 

An important, although sometimes overlooked, part of a grazing board is the freshness that comes from simpler ingredients such as fruit and vegetables to help cut through the richness of vegan cheeses and carbs galore. 

• Sun-Dried tomatoes
• Artichokes 
• Olives
• Tomatoes
• Carrot batons
• Apricots 
• Pomegranate seeds
• Grapes
• Figs
• Green beans 
• Walnuts 
• Butternut Squash
• Peppers

Cheeses:

An essential for festive grazing boards, vegan or not, is a selection of cheeses to accompany crackers and polish off with a glass of red. Some of our favourite vegan cheese brands include Violife, Sheese, Applewood, Follow Your Heart, Vegan Island and Kinda Co.

• Vegan cream cheese spread
• Vegan cheddar
• Vegan feta
• Vegan cheese slices
• Vegan Gouda
• Vegan goat’s cheese

Carbs:

Everyone’s favourite party guest, carbohydrates are top of the guest list! From crackers to accompany cheese and hunks of crusty bread to spread chutneys, they might not be the most aesthetically pleasing part of your board, but they sure are essential. 

• Classic Jacobs Crackers
• Rosemary and Sea Salt Sourdough Crackers 
• Three Seed Cracker Thins 
• Twiglets
• Pretzels
• A selection of crisps
• A Crusty loaf 

Dips and sauces:

There will be no dry crackers on our watch with this dream team of dips to match every crisp flavour in the book. 

• Hummus (to really please your guests opt for a selection such as sweet chilli, caramelised onion and red pepper)
• Guacamole 
• Baba ganoush
• Sun dried tomato pate
• Chutneys and marmalades
• Vegan pesto

The fun extras:

Because it’s Christmas, why not go a little bit extra? The non-essential items you throw in the M&S trolley at the last minute sometimes end up being the most delicious, and if you’re hosting for a big group then having a range of party foods to chuck in the oven and bulk up your board is never a bad idea. 

• Veggie pigs in blankets
• Mushroom and spinach quiche
• Curried cauliflower
• Breaded cauliflower 
• Roasted nuts, such as pecans and walnuts, for crunch and salt

Remember, remember (final tips):

• Make sure to have extra crackers and breads on hand as these will likely be the first items that need topping up to accompany cheeses and dips.

• Separate pungent flavours so that they don’t commandeer the items placed next to them.
• Fruits that oxidise (e.g. apples and avocados) are best to plate up last, as well as soft herbs which may lose their aroma after staying out for too long.
• Don’t forget the utensils! Cheese knives, spoons for hummus and cocktail sticks for easy access to all the many nibbly bits on offer will be appreciated endlessly by guests who keep coming back for more.  

Whether you sit firmly in the elasticated waistband and pyjama camp or use the opportunity of the magical 25th December to go all out with glitter everything, there’s no denying that feeling your best is a priority on one of the most joyous days of the year. Regardless of your dressy vs casj standpoint, it’s likely your ‘fit needs to accommodate a few essential criteria: socially acceptable to be seen outside for the much needed post-dinner walk, baggy enough to allow extra servings of roasties (thanks very much) and somewhat cute for the inevitable Facebook photos you’ll be tagged in without even knowing they’ve been taken. Cheers mum.

So whether your day includes a Home Alone sized extended family dinner, or instead an afternoon of flitting between Love Actually, The Snowman and Ol’ Queenie on the telly, keep scrolling for a dose of glittery outfit inspiration courtesy of a very Christmassy feeling Team Zoella.

Maddie

I like to look nice on Christmas day but definitely don’t go OTT. I usually wear something smart(ish) but most importantly comfortable (Christmas dinner essential) and then I make a little extra effort with things like accessories and makeup. I love the look of this oversized jumper dress for ultimate cosy comfort. Slick on Charlotte Tilbury lip in Love Liberty and I’m good to go.

Mango, knitted maxi dress with v neck in camel, £35.99
CHARLOTTE TILBURY MATTE REVOLUTION LIPSTICK, £25
Missoma, Lucy Williams Malachite Necklace, £95
Carrie Elizabeth, Diamond Band In Gold Vermeil, £90
Lisa Angel, Beaded Gold Starry Night Headband in Black, £16

Danielle

I’m also in the smart/casj attire camp, a post-walk shower using all my new smellies is always on the cards and I love putting on an outfit I feel comfortable but cool in! This year I’m going with a fun Fairisle jumper from River Island with patent trousers (always a bit more fun than jeans!) I’ll throw on some gold jewellery and a headband – perfect for all the festive game playing that’ll be taking place. And of course, I’ll finish the whole thing off with slippers!

River Island, CREAM FAIRISLE KNITTED JUMPER, £48
Monki, Patent trousers, £35
UGG, SCUFFETTE II SLIPPER, £80
& Other Stories, Curved Hoop Earrings, £17
Oliver Bonas,Velvet Black Headband, £22

Lareese

I’m usually a simp for comfort at Christmas but I want to make the most of it this year, get dressed up and be as merry as can be which means cosplaying as an actual disco ball. If it’s sequinned or feathered and requires sunglasses to look at it, I will be wearing it. I love Sister Jane for party wear so I’ll mostly be swanning around in this sequin mini dress until I change into something soft and roomy shortly after the Queen’s speech.

Sister Jane, Nebula Sequin Mini Dress, £89
Oliver Bonas, Faux Pearl Black Knotted Headband, £22
Zara, BEADED HIGH-HEEL SANDALS, £59.99
Topshop, One strap grab bag in silver, £46

Holly

I love nothing more than going on a dog walk on Christmas morning, dressed to the nines and waving at strangers while struggling with my heels in the mud, quite the novelty. So I will be donning my sparkles at 9am and will be in them at least until the Eastenders special. Probably sensible to wear a jacket and some tights too considering it will likely be freezing.

Next, Lipsy Puff Sleeve Tie Waist Shift Dress, £62
Pretty Little Thing, BLACK WIDE FIT POINTED HEEL , £45
M&S, 2pk of 100 Denier Tights, £7 – £8

Charlotte

I know some people prefer to enjoy Christmas Day in their pjs but for me xmas is my favourite day of the year for wearing an extra outfit and as much glitter as humanly possible! I adore this dress from Kitri and although it’s not typically festive it does feel quite wintery and I know I’d get tonnes of wear from it. I’ve paired it with some typically glitzy accessories and some heels that I would never be able to walk in- thank god I’ll only have to make it from the dinner table to the sofa and back!

Kitri Studio, Harlow Animal Print Mini Dress, £135
Public Desire, PINK SATIN DIAMANTE HEELS, £69.99
Urban Outfitters, UO Diamanté Mini Bag, £18
Tada & Toy, COSMIC TINY STAR HOOPS, £60

Darcey

My Christmas Day look is usually a smart / casual affair, I want to look a bit more dressed up than any usual day, but comfort is key when you are eating so much yummy food all day! I’ve gone for a pair of leather trousers, these H&M ones are the best I’ve found and I’ve tried a lot! For reference I’m a size 18 with larger hips, so I find either leather trousers don’t go past my hips or are huge around the waist, these fit perfect so worth trying for anyone struggling to get the right fit! I’ve paired them with a lovely green knitted jumper from Mango and some heeled boots (coming off as soon as I step through the door lol). Gold jewellery to complete the look of course too!

H&M, Imitation leather trousers, £24.99
Mango, Contrasting knit sweater, £35.99
ASOS, Wide Fit Remmy heeled boots in black, £38
ASOS, Orelia triple hoop earrings in gold plate, £22

Shop the post

This post contains ad-affiliate links 

This post is part of a paid collaboration with UGG

Whether your bus journey daydreams are occupied by Timothée Chalamet’s French accent or you watch Bake Off purely to simp over Noel Fielding (an actual debate of ‘who’s hotter’ that ensued in the Zoella office recently), we all have a celebrity crush or platonic love for certain A-listers that influence our lives and purchases. And when it comes to shopping for friends and family, those with a distinct aesthetic or passion for said personalities can make securing the perfect Christmas gift all the more easy. Always think of an HS mad friend when Watermelon Sugar comes on? Or maybe the 10-minute version of All Too Well has been ingrained in your mind by a diehard Swiftie sister, whatever their passion, there’s a gift to match…

Harry Styles

Mr Gucci himself, the apple of our eye, the man who can do no wrong (apart from not bringing Love on Tour to the U.K, cough cough), Mr Styles occupies a special place in the hearts of so many, and rightly so- did you see that leather Grammy’s ‘fit?! From his new beauty and lifestyle line, Pleasing, to his classic Tobacco Vanille scent (iykyk) there are endless gifts to surprise your Harry lovin’ pals with this festive season. Head to Etsy for the unofficial merch of dreams in the form of tote bags, artwork and hoodies, or help your fangirl friend replicate Mr Styles’ signature look itself with a boujie pressie from Gucci itself- ’tis the season of giving after all. Think maximalist, eclectic and colourful and you can’t go far wrong in pleasing a Styles simp…

Taylor Swift

For the pals that turn your world from black and white into screaming colour, nailing the perfect Swiftie approved gift this Christmas might just spark a reaction as dramatic as watching the ATW film for the first time … Taylor’s world is vast, and the gift options are truly endless when it comes to making a Swiftie’s heart sing, from subtle nods to her discography like a classic oatmeal cardigan, to items like Red (Taylor’s Version) on vinyl that will surely see some happy tears shed and an IRL ‘you need to calm down’ moment. Taylor is queen of a productive time at home, even when she claims there’s ‘nothing much going on right now’, making the gift of some UGG Tasman Slippers the perfect pressie for a pal who plans to bop around the house to Christmas Tree Farm all month long.

Lizzo

For the party people in your life, give a gift as good as hell this Christmas with these Lizzo inspired presents sure to get the good times rolling. The infectiously positive Bop Star™ has many loves in life, from vegan fast food to Chris Evans (rogue), learning to do the splits and bopping along to Harry Styles at every opportunity (same girl), gifts inspired by the queen of hip hop are perfect for your high energy pals that always bring the party. From shot glasses to sex toys, gel nails to an iconic Chris Evans candle (because would this even be a Lizzo inspired gift guide without one), it turns out you’re 100% THAT friend when it comes to gifting these failsafe presents.

Idris Elba

Got a dad or uncle who’s imposs to buy for? Look no further than gifts worthy of the king of cool himself, Mr Elba. Actor, producer and DJ no less, this slick gentleman has a notoriously suave look that means gifts that tick the functional, stylish and effortlessly cool boxes are sure to be a winner. Think posh pjs, whisky glasses a certain Mr Bond would look right at home with and a leather AirPods case to whip out on the daily commute and you’ll gain the title of smoothest gift giver in the land. 

Kim Kardashian

For the Kardashian Stan amongst your friendship group, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, wrapping up a gift Kimberly K would be only too happy to receive this Christmas is sure to send you straight to the top of Santa’s ‘nice’ list. For those as house proud as Kris Jenner on a public holiday, enjoy lounging in some classic UGG Fluff Yeah Logo Slides and put your feet up with an LED light therapy mask ahead of a poppin’ party season.

Emma Thompson

Since we enjoyed an hour of her bopping along to Adele’s One Night Only in London last month, Emma Thomspon has gone up even higher in our estimations and cemented herself as one of the most wholesome women around. For the mums, stepmums, aunties, work colleagues you ‘kinda know but not really’ and Secret Santa gifts that will never fail you, look no further than this selection of grown up gifts certain to earn you an extra-large serving of cauliflower cheese at the dinner table.

Olivia Rodrigo

Got a Gen Z family member that only speaks in TikTok audios? We got you. For the hip and happening gift recipient in your life, the queen of styling out a break up, Olivia Rodrigo, is the ultimate inspo for the cool cat that’s more sweet than sour. Treat the pal that’s had a brutal year with an & Other Stories fur trim jacket and spice up their room with a star sign print too manifest a magical 2022 alongside. It’s a good (4 u) time to be celebrating this festive season!

This post is part of a paid collaboration with UGG

As a best-selling Author, Mother and Broadcaster, Fearne Cotton is the very definition of the multi-hyphenate woman and someone who has no shortage of accolades to her name.

Undoubtedly, one of her biggest life achievements is her commitment to raising awareness for mental health and speaking about it in a way that feels safe, free from judgement and refreshingly normal, often drawing on her own experiences to help dismantle the stigma.

If you tune into her weekly podcast Happy Place, you’ll be familiar with these open, honest and often moving conversations. On each episode, Fearne chats to a plethora of brilliant guests from Russell Brand to Wim Hof and Miriam Margolyes (our personal favourite episode to date. Very sweary, very good, very Miriam) about the highs and lows of life and where they find that all-important sense of inner happiness and peace.

If there’s one thing we know about Fearne, it’s that her happy place just so happens to be her home, which is why we thought she’d be the perfect guest for our ‘Christmas At Home With’ series – a weekly gig in which we chat all things festive with some of our favourite famous faces!

At this time of year, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the festivities and the infectious pace of the holidays, so much so that you forget to claim space for yourself and embrace the true meaning of the Christmas spirit. Cue slobbing about in your PJs all day or getting outside for a family walk but most importantly, being kind to yourself and your mental health.

From what she wears on the big day to her festive beverage of choice and the decorations she depends upon year after year, here’s how Christmas goes down at Fearne Cotton’s house!

Favourite Family Tradition…

Watching the kids opening their stockings. They get in bed with us and then excitedly open up their stockings to see what Santa has delivered. 

The most delicious thing to cook…

Little spicy Christmas cookies.

Christmas tipple of choice…

I love to make cocktails on Christmas day. I don’t follow a recipe, I just go with the flow but it usually ends up with pomegranate involved as that feels festive. 

Something you’re hoping to receive…

I way prefer the giving bit but I could do with some new slippers.

Decoration you’ve had the longest…

I’ve still got some of those dough decorations that I made as a kid back in ye olden days. I’m not even sure how they’re still held together. 

Where you’ll be spending Christmas this year…

I will be at our house with my mum and dad and brother and Mums dog Wilma and my brother in law Tyrone and his dog Papaya. 

Favourite part of Christmas…

The fact that you can drink a cocktail before lunch, lay around watching TV, eat a meal like it’s a proper ceremony. I like that the day is more of a ritual rather than just a random day to race through. 

The time you eat your Christmas Lunch…

Usually about 2 pm. I don’t do it too late otherwise the kids are ravenous!

Christmas Eve plans…

I love having a big family walk on Christmas eve. It feels like a really exciting day.

Christmas day attire…

I am very much in my PJs until 10/11 am and then I’ll pop on something with sequins. My mum comes down for breakfast in sequins. She would not be seen dead in her pj’s. She also has full Christmas make-up from the get-go! 

Christmas TV special you’re most excited about…

 I ALWAYS watch the holiday in the lead-up. I have seen it so many times and never ever get bored of it 

Favourite Christmas Song…

Maria Carey All I want For Christmas or Coldplay Christmas Lights!

Hooray! The 1st of December has been and gone, and Christmas trees around the country are decked out in bay windows and entranceways awaiting a pile of deliciously wrapped gifts to grace their base (why does this sound dirtier than intended…) as the countdown to the big day itself officially begins. And although the trickier “What on earth can I buy for meat-and-two-veg Uncle Steve” might have been resolved post-Black Friday sales, the next age-old question of how to wrap said goodies may yet to be decided. Channelling Kirstie Allsopp à-la Handmade Christmas is the aim, but more often than not, nailing the perfect wrapping technique and theme without breaking the bank or contributing to more waste than necessary at Christmas is a trickier feat than expected.

Pinterest searches for gift-wrapping techniques rose by 2.4 times during the past year,  meaning the stakes are higher than ever for a wrapping style that both wows and complements the festive decor of your home too. If you’re stumped for inspiration ahead of wrapping the gifts for your nearest and dearest this season, look no further than our three favourite wrapping styles good enough to give Love Actually’s Rowan Atkinson a run for his money…

Floral and Botanical

Whether you’re a die-hard Christmas lover who wants something a little different this year, or instead are looking ahead to the ever-gorgeous season of Spring, a floral wrapping theme is one sure to spark a reaction this Christmas Day. Beautifully feminine and bold in its colour scheme, this wrapping style is serving Kew Gardens, Japanese Cherry Blossom and a

Cottagecore greenhouse all blended up, sounds divine right?! One for the maximalists amongst us, the theme’s colour palette includes every shade of pink that’s right in the world, greens ranging from forest to sage, warmth from oranges and yellows and darker accents of navy to balance this feast for the eyes too. To really embody this theme to its fullest, head to your local florist or supermarket ahead of the big day and add real floral clippings (we love chrysanthemums for how affordable yet striking they are) which combined with paper and ribbon elements helps to elevate this theme to a whole new level.

Although bold and beautiful wrapping paper is doing a truly magnificent job of creating an under the tree scene mother nature herself would only be too proud to show off, maximalist wrapping means more is more when it comes to adding finishing touches including bows, stickers, sweet treats and gift tags too. Ribbons can be reused and recycled year upon year, making them the perfect way to add a sustainable but statement element to your gift wrap this season that doesn’t scrimp on the wow factor. 

Whether your home is a nature haven during Christmas and beyond, or you’re simply looking to channel this botanical theme in your gift-giving this year, your gifts are guaranteed to stand out amongst the rest with this ultra-feminine and indulgent style.

Retro & Novelty

Sometimes it’s hard to top the classics, and the retro-themed wrapping style is no exception to the rule! Serving Christmas classic realness, this theme is all about bringing the conventional Christmas colours and prints to life with a novelty twist, adding a certain je ne sais quoi to traditional striped or holly printed paper that may be already in your collection, and adding a new lease of life for Christmas 2021. Once more this theme is all about maximising the wow factor additional accessories and details can bring to a gift, this time in the form of ribbons, pom-poms and bells, making it perfect for both the young and old of your family and truly offering something everyone will be eyeing up under the Christmas tree. Traditional Christmas colours look right at home here, with reds, greens, whites and golds making a strong case for the classic Christmas aesthetic that really never gets old. If it ain’t broke, why fix it! 

When it comes to channelling the ultimate in novelty fun as part of this wrapping style, offering something new and unusual is the aim, which is why including vintage scarves or fabric wraps as part of your under the tree style is an addition not to miss this festive season. Not only is this method of wrapping one that makes awkward shapes suddenly a breeze to conceal, it’s also a must within the zero waste movement that aims to lessen your environmental footprint during the season of indulgence – something it’s important we’re all conscious of in the case of throw-away items such as wrapping paper. Known as Furoshiki, these traditional Japanese square cloths were designed both as a way to wrap and transport goods, and have been used for centuries as part of this culture before their resurgence as an environmentally positive way to wrap gifts in modern life. Now all of a sudden classic gift bags seem a little dull in comparison…

Finish your gifts with a traditional striped candy cane and voila- you’ve completed your take on novelty Christmas!

A Scandinavian Dream

Neutral and minimal lovers rejoice, we haven’t forgotten about you! If brown parcel paper and a ‘less is more’ approach to Christmas is more your bag then the Nordic simplicity we know and love in the world of interiors can be translated into your world of wrapping too. The beautiful natural landscapes, snowy climates and forest flora that is so synonymous with the gorgeous Scandinavian world is one of the simplest aesthetics to recreate within your home in 2021, starting with the classic parcel paper base that can be accessorised or left to shine in its simplest form underneath the tree. Nordic style is a true celebration of the simplicity of a beautifully soft colour palette that’s sure to add an element of calm amongst the Christmas frenzy in your home, as well as bringing the outdoors in with nods to nature that are still all too welcome after the cooped up Christmas that we saw in 2020. 

For your own take on Scandinavian style, consider grabbing some white paint and detail brushes from your local art store and add your own leaf, holly or abstract design onto plain brown paper for an individual look guaranteed to set your gifts apart from the rest.  Evergreen clippings, string, bells, dried fruits and eucalyptus are must-haves when it comes to accessorizing your gifts, and all an affordable means to create a wrapping aesthetic that looks effortlessly chic without breaking the bank. Finish with a handwritten tag and this year’s Christmas aesthetic of dreams is all wrapped up!

Wrapping 101- It’s all in the details

Now you’ve decided on your dream wrapping style for the season of giving, here are the need to know tips to ensure your gifts look truly seamless:

• Sharp scissors for the win- not only is gliding through your paper of choice a sensory joy, it also makes for the cleanest looking lines, adding the perfect finish to your gifts. 
• For the items with tricky corners, or shapes that simply don’t want to play ball, crepe paper is the most forgiving of them all if you’re short on time, patience, or both.
• Ran out of wrapping paper last min? We got you. Grab an old glossy magazine that’s likely collecting dust in the corner and select a patterned, colourful page to wrap small gifts or create homemade bows. Sustainable and unique- tick! 
• If you’re low on tape, or once more looking for planet-friendly brownie points, head to @beeandblooms TikTok account for this mesmerizing no tape wrapping hack. Mind. Blown.

Much like the rest of Instagram, we’ve gone early with Christmas. From talk of putting the tree up in November (so what if it’s flaccid by December 2nd) to queuing Mariah Carey on the team Spotify every day at 4pm sharp, it seems like we all want to make the most of the run-up to the most wonderful time of the year. And who can blame us? 2020 was the ultimate Grinch, robbing us of all those precious moments, so why shouldn’t we go ham on the holidays this year!

Such was the power of our premature Christmas spirit that we were primed and ready to read festive fiction a month early. Anything by Mandy Baggot is the bonafide trademark of winter reads and One New York Christmas is no exception. Like balm for the soul, Baggot has penned just the remedy for our sad girl autumn mood.

The story follows broken-hearted Lara Weeks, who heads to NYC with best pal Susie for the trip of a lifetime. A festive break in the snowy Big Apple visiting the tourist hotspots, not to mention the shopping, seems like the perfect way for Lara to get over her ex-boyfriend Dan. Or maybe make him so jealous he begs for a second chance…

Enlisting the help of gorgeous actor, Seth Hunt, doesn’t quite go to plan, but there’s something about him that has Lara wishing for a different kind of happy ever after…

Keep on reading to get to the team’s book reviews!

Lareese says…

All aboard the hype train. Mandy Baggot’s One New York Christmas is a heart-warming festive romance with a healthy dash of realness. It’s not your quintessential Christmas read in the sense that it deals with some poignant subject matter from adoption to homelessness, but I think that’s exactly what propels the story forward and made for a poignant and hearty read. The characters are endlessly entertaining, relatable and likeable – I loved getting to know Lara and Seth and the supporting cast, and Mandy Baggot’s natural ear for dialogue made it feel a lot like you were tagging along for the journey.

If you’re looking for something to curl up with during the countdown till Christmas, treat yourself to a vicarious trip to the Big Apple via Mandy Baggot’s brilliant brain.

Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend it? Yes! Round off your 2021 reading list with this Christmas corker.

Danielle Says

My partner and I are heading to NY just after Christmas so I was extremely excited to get stuck into a cheesy festive read set in the city and this did not disappoint! Don’t get me wrong, this book covers so much more than just a romantic comedy storyline, it covers harder-hitting topics like homelessness, adoption, and the intricacies of relationships of all different kinds. My favourite part of the book was of course the wonderful descriptions of New York at Christmas, especially the Central Park Zoo where the two main characters meet. I know it’s cool to have nuanced, floored characters but I just fell in love with Seth and Lara, Seth is such a dish in my head if I wasn’t engaged I’d be looking for real-life him, and Lara for her feistiness and courage. Super cute book, chuck it in your basket and enjoy it in the lead up to Christmas day!

Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend it? For my fellow Christmas lovers

Darcey says…

Oh it sure feels like Christmas now! I’ve heard before about Mandy Baggot’s festive reads and how feel-good they all are, so I was pretty excited to start reading this one especially as it’s based in New York which is basically the most festive place ever this time of year. I really enjoyed getting to know Lara and Seth throughout this book and watching their romance slowly blossom, the narrative of Lara coming from a little village to being in the hustle and bustle of New York is a storyline I could read over and over again, it just always feels really relatable!

This book truly gives you those warm and fuzzy feels that you want at this time of year, it’s a festive rom-com read which looks at some more hard pressing topics like adoption, heartbreak and homelessness, but it’s the perfect balance throughout. Would definitely recommend for anyone after a festive read for December!

Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend it? Yes for sure!